Let me share a personal experience that changed how I use AI (Artificial Intelligence).

I was developing an application that generated two spreadsheets from different sources. After gathering the information, I needed to merge these sheets. I decided to leverage AI to handle the task, and it completed the merge. However, there was a problem: the first row of the new sheet was blank.

Here's where my thinking shifted. I explained the issue to the AI, and it provided code that attempted to avoid the blank row during the merge. Unfortunately, this solution didn't work. The AI kept trying variations on the same approach – focusing on removing the blank row while merging. It was like a robot stuck in a loop, repeatedly applying the same unsuccessful solution.

This made me question the AI's "intelligence." Why wasn't it trying a different approach?

With that in mind, I suggested: "Why not merge the sheets first, ignoring the blank row, and then address it afterward?"

Eureka! The AI followed my suggestion and solved the problem, saving me time. This experience transformed my perspective on AI. I began to view them as powerful automation tools, recognizing that I provide the ideas and creativity. My prompts to the AI have evolved significantly.

Now, I prefer to offer guidance or analyze the proposed solution and provide feedback. In other words, I don't expect the AI to be creative or independently assess its solutions. I am the intelligence; the AI is an extension of me.

By adopting this mindset, I'm unlocking the true potential of AI. I hope this experience helps others move beyond initial misconceptions about how AI can be effectively utilized.